Classic Tossed Salad Recipe

Mixed greens: A variety of lettuces and leafy vegetables that provide a fresh and crisp base for the salad.

Cherry tomatoes: Small, sweet tomatoes that add a burst of flavor and color to the salad.

Cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch and mild flavor to the salad.

Red onion: Provides a sharp, tangy taste that complements the other ingredients.

Olive oil: A high-quality oil that forms the base of the salad dressing, adding richness and depth.

Balsamic vinegar: Adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the dressing, balancing the richness of the olive oil.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the salad ingredients.

Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity to the salad.

When preparing the mixed greens, ensure they are thoroughly washed and dried to prevent excess moisture, which can dilute the dressing and make the salad soggy. Use a salad spinner to remove water efficiently.

• mixed greens - Substitute with baby spinach: Baby spinach provides a similar texture and nutritional profile, making it a great alternative.

• cherry tomatoes - Substitute with grape tomatoes: Grape tomatoes have a similar sweetness and juiciness, making them an excellent substitute.

• cucumber - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini has a similar crunch and mild flavor, which works well in salads.

• red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, slightly sweeter flavor that can be a good alternative to red onions.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar healthy fat profile and a neutral flavor that works well in dressings.

• balsamic vinegar - Substitute with red wine vinegar: Red wine vinegar provides a similar acidity and tanginess, making it a suitable replacement.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar level of seasoning with a slightly different mineral content.

• freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar spiciness but with a slightly different flavor profile.

• To keep your classic tossed salad fresh, store the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion separately in airtight containers. This prevents the greens from becoming soggy.
• If you’ve already combined the ingredients, transfer the salad to an airtight container and place a paper towel on top before sealing. The paper towel will absorb excess moisture, keeping the salad crisp.
• Store the olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressing in a small jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. Shake well before using.
• For optimal freshness, consume the salad within 1-2 days. The mixed greens may start to wilt after this period.
• If you need to prepare the salad in advance, keep the dressing separate until just before serving. This will prevent the greens from wilting.
• Freezing the classic tossed salad is not recommended as the texture of the vegetables will degrade. However, you can freeze the dressing in an ice cube tray and thaw as needed.
• When ready to serve, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with the thawed dressing, toss gently, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

• Reheating a classic tossed salad can be tricky since you want to maintain the freshness and crispness of the mixed greens and vegetables. Here are some creative methods to enjoy your leftovers:

1. Room Temperature Revival:

   • Remove the salad from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This will take the chill off without wilting the greens.

2. Quick Sauté:

   • Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat.
   • Add a small amount of olive oil.
   • Toss in the leftover salad and sauté for 1-2 minutes, just until the vegetables are slightly warmed but still crisp.

3. Warm Dressing:

   • Gently heat the olive oil and balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over low heat.
   • Drizzle the warm dressing over the cold salad to bring it to a pleasant temperature without cooking the greens.

4. Microwave Steam:

   • Place the salad in a microwave-safe bowl.
   • Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plate, leaving a small gap for steam to escape.
   • Microwave on low power for 20-30 seconds. Check and repeat if necessary, ensuring the greens stay crisp.

5. Oven Warm-Up:

   • Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C).
   • Spread the salad on a baking sheet.
   • Warm in the oven for about 5 minutes, just until the vegetables are slightly warmed.

6. Grill Toss:

   • Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat.
   • Lightly brush the pan with olive oil.
   • Quickly toss the salad on the grill for 1-2 minutes, giving it a slight char and warmth.

Remember, the goal is to warm the salad without losing the fresh crunch of the vegetables. Enjoy your classic tossed salad with a new twist!

• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl to combine and toss all the salad ingredients together without spilling.

• Salad spinner: Essential for washing and drying the mixed greens thoroughly to ensure they are crisp and free of excess water.

• Chef's knife: A sharp knife to efficiently slice the cucumber and red onion.

• Cutting board: A sturdy surface to safely chop and slice the vegetables.

• Measuring cups: Useful for accurately measuring the olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

• Salad tongs: Handy for gently tossing the salad ingredients together.

• Serving bowl: A presentable bowl to serve the salad in once it’s ready.

• Pepper mill: For freshly grinding black pepper to season the salad.

• Measuring spoons: To measure out the balsamic vinegar and any other seasonings precisely.

Pre-wash and chop: Wash and chop the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion in advance and store them in airtight containers.

Use a salad spinner: A salad spinner can quickly dry your mixed greens, saving you time and ensuring they are crisp.

Pre-make the dressing: Combine olive oil and balsamic vinegar in a jar and store it in the fridge. Shake well before using.

Batch prep: Prepare larger quantities of the ingredients and store them separately for quick assembly throughout the week.